Scientific research establishes that gum or periodontal disease is an infection affecting the tissues that hold your teeth in position. This oral disease usually results from poor flossing and brushing habits. Neglect allows sticky bacteria or plaque to accumulate and harden. When left untreated, periodontal disease leads to bleeding gums, tooth loss, and painful chewing. If you’re uncertain that you already exhibit signs of periodontal or gum disease, here are some top signs.
Receding Gums
When you have progressive periodontal disease, experts say that your teeth tend to look longer. This means that your gums are receding. Because of the gradual tissue loss around the tooth, the roots of your teeth slowly lose their protection. This root exposure leaves your teeth susceptible to removal, infection, or decay. Receding gums do not look and feel good. Your teeth become more sensitive as they lose their attachment and stability. Oral surgeons point out that during advanced stages of gum disease, the infection reaches deep into the periodontal pockets. During the final stages of gum disease, it becomes more challenging to remove debris and food particles. With flossing and brushing already failing, the periodontal pockets become deeper.
Stubborn Bad Breath
When you wake up in the morning or if you just ate a dish with some onions and garlic, you usually have bad breath. Normally, it is easy to get rid of bad breath by toothbrushing, taking breath mints, or gargling mouthwash. If you still have lingering bad breath after cleaning your mouth, dentists usually tell you that this may be a sign of poor oral wellness. The offensive smell is a result of gum disease or tooth decay. According to clinical research, the bad odor is from the waste products of the bacteria that cover your tongue, teeth, and gums. Consult with your dentist about this matter so that you can determine its cause and treatment.
Bleeding, Swelling, Painful Gums
Scientists say that plaque accumulation irritates your gums. When this happens, your gums become sensitive, red, swollen, and highly vulnerable to bleeding. Plaque targets the healthy gums that surround your teeth. Eventually, they will reach the fibrous layer that attaches your teeth to your gums. This destruction leads to bleeding gums when you brush and floss your teeth.
Sensitive Teeth
According to clinical data, tooth sensitivity is also a sign of gum disease. This manifests through the discomfort you feel when your tooth or teeth touch something cold or hot. This sensitivity may be evidence of thinning enamel or exposure of dental roots. It may also result from the absence of enamel. You’re at risk of developing gum disease if you have diabetes, hormonal fluctuations, and are smoking.
At Orange Door Dental Group, we know how serious gum diseases are, and how crucial it is for you to know if you already have this condition. Please visit our clinics in Indiana, for a one-on-one consultation. You can also call us at 574-406-2115 (Warsaw) or 574-347-4793 (Elkhart). That way, we can help you schedule an appointment or answer your questions about gum disease.
